Travelling to the Kingdom of Belgium
Practical Guidance for UAE Nationals
The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Brussels welcomes UAE citizens visiting the Kingdom of Belgium for tourism, business, medical treatment, study, or other purposes. To help ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit, travelers are encouraged to review the following information before departure.
Before You Travel
- Ensure your UAE passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of arrival in Belgium. Citizens traveling abroad for medical treatment are particularly encouraged to renew their passports before departure.
- UAE citizens benefit from visa-free travel to the Schengen Area, including Belgium, for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
- Before traveling, ensure you have appropriate health insurance coverage, confirmed accommodation arrangements, and a return or onward travel booking.
Documents to Carry
- Upon arrival in Belgium, border control authorities may request supporting documentation. Travelers are advised to keep the following documents readily accessible:
- A valid UAE passport and any applicable travel authorization.
- A confirmed return or onward ticket, with the total duration of stay not exceeding 90 days.
- Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel reservation or other lodging arrangements.
- Evidence of sufficient financial means to cover the duration of the stay. Travelers carrying EUR 10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, must declare these funds to customs authorities when entering or leaving the European Union.
- Valid travel or health insurance documentation covering the duration of the visit.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
Travelers are advised to familiarize themselves with Belgian and European Union customs regulations regarding prohibited and restricted items, including:
- Food products: Meat, fish, dairy products, and related products are generally prohibited from entering the European Union from non-EU countries.
- Weapons and sharp objects: Weapons of all kinds are prohibited. Sharp or pointed items, including knives and scissors, are not permitted in carry-on baggage and should be placed in checked luggage where permitted.
- Tobacco and regulated substances: Travelers arriving from outside the European Union may bring up to 200 cigarettes or 250 grams of tobacco per adult for personal use. Flammable, toxic, and other regulated substances are subject to restrictions.
- Animals and plants: Pets may enter Belgium only with the required veterinary health certificates, vaccinations, and supporting documentation issued by the competent authorities. Certain plants, seeds, and plant products are also restricted.
Local Laws and Customs
UAE citizens are encouraged to respect local laws, customs, and regulations throughout their stay in Belgium.
Please note that Belgian law prohibits the wearing of full-face coverings, including the burqa and niqab, in public spaces.
Additional information regarding local regulations, public conduct, road safety, and other legal requirements may be obtained through official Belgian authorities or by contacting the Embassy.
Consular Assistance and Emergencies
UAE citizens traveling abroad are strongly encouraged to register through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Twajudi service before departure to facilitate communication and consular assistance when needed.
In the event of an emergency during your stay in Belgium or Luxembourg, please contact the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Brussels. UAE nationals may also contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' emergency hotline for UAE nationals abroad at 00971 80024, which operates in coordination with UAE missions worldwide to provide assistance and support.
The Embassy wishes you a safe, pleasant, and memorable visit to the Kingdom of Belgium.